In response to a new mandatory 12% fare discount, taxi drivers at Ben-Gurion International Airport struck on Sunday night, refusing to pick up passengers. They explained they cannot absorb the fare reduction and still earn a livelihood. Drivers carried protest signs and shouted slogans until midnight. Later in the night passengers were able to get a cab.

Police report that one driver, who threw a bottle, was detained.

According to drivers, they are still trying to combat the last fare reduction of 7% and before they know it, an addition 12% reduction is added.

The angry drivers questioned why they do not enjoy a 12% reduction in the price of gasoline or why the head of the Israel Airports Authority does not take a 12% pay cut while they are forced to swallow this economically difficult pill.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)